Fleet depart Toulon

30 September 2013

The fleet have begun to depart Toulon this morning after four days of festivities with approximately one million visitors to the quaysides. Royal Helena (Bulgaria) - pictured - was the first to undock, watched by hundreds of early visitors. They will then gather for the Parade of Sail, the traditional way in which the fleet departs and says thank you for the host port's hospitality. Spectators will be able to view the ships from many vantage points along the ten mile route, finishing at around mid-day close to Cap d'Armes, Il de Porquerolles.

The Race Committee are monitoring the weather conditions and forecast for later today, which currently predicts a force 4-5 at the start line with wind decreasing steadily for the following 12 hours.

Race Two (Toulon to La Spezia) is scheduled to commence at 17.00hrs local 5 nm south of Cap d'd'Armes 42° 54’N 006° 12’E and finish 44° 01’N 09° 51’E (135°T from Isla del Tinto Light for a distance of up to 5nm).

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If you need to call your family and friends during the Regatta please look out for their stand space portside in Barcelona, Toulon and La Spezia.

What is sail training?

Sail Training is an adventure activity, which includes far more than sailing instruction. Participants are required to confront demanding challenges, both physical and emotional. It is an activity that inspires self-confidence and personal responsibility. It promotes an acceptance of others, whatever their social or cultural backgrounds, and develops a willingness to take controlled risks. Those who undertake Sail Training on Tall Ships generally find it a positive life-changing experience.

STI is the international voice of Sail Training, a registered charity (not-for-profit organisation), which has worldwide membership and activities. Its purpose is the development and education of young people through the Sail Training experience, regardless of nationality, culture, religion, gender or social background. It organises the annual Tall Ship Races and other international Tall Ship sailing events. STI members are 29 national Sail Training organisations around the world and STI’s head office is in Gosport, Hampshire, UK.

The organisation was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize 2007 for its work in promoting international understanding and friendship.